In those early years, everyone pitched in — Lam herself taught art history. Long time supporters of HKAC stepped up to help: Francis Yu was in charge of painting majors, Ho Siu-kee oversaw sculpture, Fiona Wong led ceramics and Tse Ming-chong taught photography. Although students had to declare a major from the outset, they had a lot of freedom to explore other disciplines.

The four disciplines continue to be HKAS's main focus, though in the past it also offered media and design. After a few temporary homes, including a stint at Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre in Shek Kip Mei, the school is now in Chai Wan's Youth Square with some classes still taught at HKAC. Studios are situated in Chai Wan and Shau Kei Wan for students to work on projects in dedicated spaces.